Kerala Agricultural University to revive rice production

Thrissur: Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Kerala and Lakshadweep in the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) have resolved to implement coordinated programmes for extensive revival of rice production systems and promotion of integrated farming systems in the state. This was decided after a three-day pre-action plan meet which was held recently. The meeting organised by KAU Directorate of Extension at Karshaka Bhavanam, Vellanikkara noted that Integrated farming models incorporating components of agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries should be popularized.

"Integrated systems represent the priority flagship programme of the State Government and are  viable options for doubling farmers' income. KVKs are the best equipped agencies to take up these models since they have the combined manpower from different faculties," explained Dr.Jiju P Alex,  KAU Director of Extension.  KVKs will also formulate and propagate programmes to supplement agricultural growth, which is vital for propping up a healthy economy. Technologies for maximum production from unit area and eco-friendly pest and disease management will also be popularized. Demonstration units of Agri Ecological Units based on KAU reccomendations will also be taken up by all 14 KVKs .

The meeting to chalk out the action plan for 2018-19 was inaugurated by KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu on March 1. The Vice- Chancellor, in his inaugural address, appreciated the vibrant and vital extension services rendered by KVKs for transferring technologies developed by the research system. He also called upon the scientists of KVKs to be sensitive to the needs of the farmers and plan for interventions which improved their livelihood. KAU Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Devi raised the multiple challenges faced by the agricultural sector and called upon the scientists of KVKs to work out strategies to address the concerns on quality of the farm produce as well as income of farmers.

Dr. D.V. Srinivasa Reddy, Principal Scientist, ATARI, Bangalore insisted that he would draft action plans including the training programmes. He suggested models on location specific Integrated Farming System in all the KVKs.  Dr. P.V. Habeeburrahman, Programme Co-ordinator, KVK, Malappuram proposed a vote of thanks. In addition to heads and subject matter Specialists from KVKs in Kerala and Lakshadweep, scientists from KAU, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU) and Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean studies (KUFOS), Dr.K.P.Sudheer, Dr.Jacob John, Dr. P.K.Suresh Kumar, Dr.S.Anitha, Dr. Biju, Dr.Prasad, Dr. Anitha Cherian, Dr . Madhu  Subrahmoniam,Dr.Beela S Manoj and Fisheries Additional Director Shaji participated in the deliberations.